Where Nature Meets Legacy: Discovering Arabia Mountain Vineyard
Just 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta in DeKalb County, Georgia, lies a sanctuary that feels worlds away. Arabia Mountain Vineyard, a special events destination, is a vision rooted in family legacy, cultivated with intention, and designed to nourish the soul.
A Labor of Love, Decades in the Making
For over 30 years since the Starks family bought the property, it sat quietly in DeKalb County, with its owners waiting for its purpose to be revealed. When founder Tim Starks and his family visited California wine country in 2019, inspiration struck. When they returned to Georgia, they didn’t just have an idea; it became a calling. Since then, Tim, a commercial landscape architect with over 50 years of experience, and his family have transformed 18 acres of natural terrain into something extraordinary.
Every palm tree on site – all 350 of them – every walking trail, and every overlook with sweeping views that stretch to Arabia Mountain itself were planted, designed, and nurtured by Tim and his family’s hands. And while it’s not done yet, the family has a vision to keep developing this sanctuary into a go-to destination for weddings, events, retreats, team building weekends, glamping and more.
More Than Wine: A Holistic Experience
To be sure, they are still in their early days. Plans call to build more permanent facilities, such as tiny homes for glamping, more infrastructure, and an arrangement for more parking.
Today, visitors can see vineyards planted up a hill making a scenic vista. A putting green and meadow are key features between two large decks and patios. A small waterfall creates a melodic backdrop for yoga classes.
While visitors cannot necessarily do a wine tasting on the property, they are growing grapes. Arabia Mountain Vineyard is part of the 1% of Georgia vineyards growing true wine grapes rather than muscadines. Their five carefully selected varietals (Villard Blanc, Chardonel, Blanc DuBois, Lomanto, and Black Spanish) thrive in the unique terroir: granite-based clay loam enriched by mineral runoff from the 400-million-year-old Arabia Mountain. In a recent year, they sold their grapes to another maker. And one year was off for growing grapes, so they didn’t have any to sell. Their goal is to bottle their own in coming years as they continue to create a larger vineyard.
The owners see the DeKalb County acreage as a great place for wellness and connection. Recent events like “Meditation and Melodies” have invited guests to walk a wellness trail, set intentions, release burdens at a natural waterfall, and ground themselves in nature’s embrace, all accompanied by live music.
“We believe this is a space of holistic healing, wellness, and tranquility,” shares Hakemia Jackson, Chief Experience Officer at Arabia Mountain Vineyard. “We want everyone to feel that spirit of restoration and renewal.”
Rooted in Community, Growing with Vision
The vineyard’s “Vines & Vibes” event recently drew over 140 guests who enjoyed live saxophone, curated food pairings, and sunset views from the property’s highest point. But the family’s vision extends far beyond social gatherings.
Through their nonprofit “Fruits of Our Labor,” they’re creating opportunities for underprivileged youth to learn about farming, wellness, and connection to the land. Sheriff Eric Levett’s (Rockdale) Student Activity League recently visited for a summer program featuring a scavenger hunt, farming education, meditation, and the celebration: building their own charcuterie boards paired with grape juice.
The vineyard has also hosted everything from campaign events (including a visit from Rick Ross) to intimate wellness retreats.
A Vision Taking Root
Arabia Mountain Vineyard represents something powerful: Black excellence in agriculture, a commitment to community wellness, and a space where Atlanta’s diverse communities can gather in nature’s embrace. The family has invested over a million dollars of their own resources to create this debt-free sanctuary, and their vision for the future includes expanded event spaces, a farmers market, wellness festivals, and overnight experiences.
“We need people to know this exists,” adds Hakemia. “We’re not trying to be the loudest or the biggest. We’re trying to be the most meaningful.”
Experience the Difference
For people seeking a peaceful escape, a unique venue for corporate events, weddings, retreats, or simply a place to reconnect with nature and community, Arabia Mountain Vineyard offers something increasingly rare in the greater Atlanta metro region: authentic tranquility just minutes from the city.
The vineyard operates by reservation to maintain its intimate, restorative atmosphere. Its “Savor & Stroll Day Pass” accommodates groups of up to seven and includes private space on the grounds, curated refreshments, seasonal charcuterie, and two hours to explore the vines and soak in the beauty.
Because it’s hilly and mostly on grass or unpaved paths, Hakemia reminds visitors: “Come in your nature chic –your athletic gear and cute kicks. Leave the stilettos at home and bring an open heart.”
Plan Your Visit
Arabia Mountain Vineyard is located in Lithonia, Georgia, on the eastern edge of DeKalb County.
The property will go into its seasonal dormancy from December through March, with new experiences resuming in spring 2026.
Arabia Mountain Vineyard is a proud member of the DeKalb County business community. Hakemia recently participated in Decide DeKalb’s Business of US panel, sharing insights on entrepreneurship and community impact.
Decide DeKalb Development Authority is committed to highlighting the diverse, innovative businesses that make DeKalb County a premier destination for business, tourism, and quality of life.People interested in doing business in DeKalb can learn more about how to get involved and stay informed.